STAFF REPORTER

A 54-year-old South African man, believed to be a drug mule, is expected to appear in the Kempton Park Magistrate’s Court on Friday 4 September, on drug trafficking-related charges after being arrested at OR Tambo International Airport today.

Lt-Col Amanda van Wyk said the drugs are suspected to be cocaine.

Intelligence-led operation

“The arrest follows the operationalisation of intelligence-led information by officers regarding the suspect, who was reportedly en route to Hong Kong when he was intercepted at the airport on Thursday morning 3 September. A search of the suspect and his luggage led to the discovery of the suspected cocaine concealed in the luggage,” said Van Wyk.

She said the exact value and weight of the drugs are yet to be determined and will be confirmed in due course.

Third bust in a week

“Just last week, police intercepted two separate cocaine consignments at this same airport, with a combined estimated value of R200 million,” she said.

Officers remain committed to disrupting and dismantling drug trafficking networks through intelligence-led operations and targeted interventions at ports of entry.